CRI's fortunes have followed those of the industry it serves, according to outgoing chairman Ralph Boe. The budget of the organization declined from approximately $5 million at one point to slightly under $3.2 million at present, roughly reflecting the industry's drop in sales and volume, although it does not affect operations. "We still operate efficiently,bCrLf Boe said.

CRI's mission is to be the source for science-based information on the soft flooring industry, according to president Werner Braun. Braun said that he runs the organization as a business that works to identify obstacles to people buying more carpet. CRI tackles those issues in a way that progress can be measured, so CRI can deliver results to its stakeholders.

"We fight each other for every yard every day,bCrLf Boe said, referring to his competitors and fellow members. "But fortunately we can come together as a group and make the right decisions for the industry.bCrLf

Boe pointed to the recent recycling legislation in California, where the CRI worked on behalf of the membership to make the bill a more practical solution.

The industry will come back, Boe predicted. Keeping the CRI strong through the downturn helps position the organization and the industry for the future. "We will again have a strong business in soft flooring,bCrLf Boe said.